Mastering a new language can be challenging but hugely rewarding. Whether you want to be able to immerse yourself in the culture next time you go on holiday or are simply looking for a way to keep your brain working, these tips could help you reach your goal sooner.
A report from Cambridge University in April 2022 notes that bilingual people have more neurons in their brain, which could indicate greater cognitive function.
It also found that people who learn a second language later in life could benefit, no matter what level they’re at. Having new experiences is an important factor in forming new connections in the brain and strengthening nervous system links. So, studying a new language, where you need to grapple with grammatical constructs and memorise words, could offer some protection from cognitive decline.
The report also noted that other research had found that learning a new language could improve concentration, enhance communication skills, and boost creativity.
So, whether you’re learning Italian or Japanese, here are some practical tips that could help you.
1. Set realistic goals
Mastering a language takes time, so break your goal into smaller chunks. You might aim to learn 10 new words every day or work on improving your grammar twice a week.
Realistic goals that you can achieve regularly can help you stay motivated. You could set milestone rewards. Perhaps after you’ve stuck to your schedule for three months, you can visit the cinema to watch a film in the language you’re learning, or go out for a meal and try ordering in the language once you’re comfortable with certain phrases.
2. Complete daily tasks
You don’t need to spend hours poring over books to pick up a language. Instead, consistently practising every day could be more valuable. Even 15 minutes a day could make a huge difference.
If you can, set aside dedicated time so it becomes part of your routine. You can mix up how you’re engaging with the language to keep it interesting. You might read, listen to a podcast, or browse a foreign news channel.
3. Start speaking right away
Worries about getting it wrong mean many learners put off speaking their new language out loud. While it can seem daunting at first, it could improve your skills at a faster pace.
If you want to build your confidence, simply try speaking phrases to yourself. Once you’re ready to put your skills to the test, you could use a language exchange app or join a local group. Conversing with others could improve your pronunciation and help you get to grips with how the language is spoken, such as learning common slang or idioms.
4. Focus on vocabulary before grammar
Depending on the language you’re learning, the grammar may be very different to English and it can be difficult to get your head around.
So, instead, focus on building your vocabulary so you can make yourself understood. As you talk or read more in the language, you’ll start to pick up the sentence structure and grammar rules.
5. Use technology to support you
There are a huge number of tools right at your fingertips that could make practising a language simple. Perhaps the most popular option is Duolingo, which has gamified the learning of a language with short exercises and a leaderboard – if you’re competitive, it could be perfect for keeping you on track.
Apps can’t replace human interaction when you’re learning the nuances of the language, but they can be an easy way to refresh your memory.
6. Try to think in the language
One of the challenges of conversing in a new language is the time it takes to translate what’s been said and your response.
Try thinking in your target language. This will be challenging at first as you’ll often revert to your native tongue, but it’s a way to improve your fluency and how naturally you speak. Try setting yourself challenges, like only thinking in the language you’re learning during a shopping trip and track how many times you return to English to see how you improve each time.
7. Accept you’ll make mistakes
Finally, picking up a new language is a long-term goal, and you’ll make mistakes throughout the process. Don’t let them get you down. Instead, learn from them, keep up a consistent routine, and remember why you decided to take on the challenge in the first place.